“I don’t know how you could restrain yourself from not playing with him, once he was healthy and clear of the medical things you guys had on your plate.”
“He’s very sexual.”
“And, as you mentioned, he’s a masochist. So he’s perfect for you. He has a lean frame. Be careful not to break him, Mr. Sadist.”
I laughed out loud.
“Brandon can withstand my poundings.”
“He’s a delightful looking young man. You best consider keeping his availability to a minimum in Oxygen. Tops will grab him up in a moment.”
“He’s been going to Oxygen with me for months. I’ve been mentoring him as I have others.”
“Yes, I recall. But you mentor others with the intent that they will learn about themselves so they can safely fly your nest. I don’t believe that’s the case with Brandon.”
“You’re right. Brandon is very different, and I’m keeping him for myself. Russell, we talked about how I think Brandon can meet my needs.”
“Indeed, we did. I’m not doubting it. What I was trying to say in a less obvious way, is that you need to consider collaring him. You don’t want Tops coming up to you asking about him, waiting for you to finish a session with him. You said he’s head over heels for you.”
“Collaring is on my radar, but I’d like to get through a few more rigorous sessions with him first. Now, if you’re done ogling my pup, let’s get to the reason for all of this.”
“Yes. Please proceed.”
“Look at the most recent photo of him with the man. Something doesn’t feel right to me about this guy. He said it’s a friend of the family, and that he’s known him since his sophomore year of high school.”
“He could possibly be someone in the education field. Perhaps his mother knew him. He has a muscular upper body; maybe he’s a coach. What are you thinking that you’re not telling me?” Russell pointedly asked.
“I think this man had something to do with Brandon’s disappearance. Brandon’s body language changed drastically when we talked about the photo.”
“You know his reactions best. You’ve shared quite a bit of time with him. If his reactions have given you a reason to suspect that this guy might be involved, then you should follow your instincts.”
“That’s what I’m not certain on yet. I don’t know if I should push Brandon for more info, or if I should put a bug in the FBI’s ear. I could contact the FBI and give them Brandon’s social media handle and let them do a little digging.”
“That’s a tough call, James. I think if I were in your shoes, I might do both. Perhaps reach out to your friend with the FBI, and push Brandon a little more.”
“PerhapsI’ll do just that.”
After I got off the phone with Russell, I decided to reach out to Garrett right away. I didn’t want to give myself a chance to talk myself out of this. Once I had Garrett on the phone, I quickly explained my thoughts surrounding this Eli guy.
“Thank you for calling and giving me this tip, James.”
“It’s no trouble at all. If this bastard is still roaming around, I want him to be held accountable.”
“I agree, and I’ll personally look into this,” Garrett replied.
“I appreciate it, Garrett.” Just as I was getting ready to get off the call, he spoke up.
“I’ve been meaning to give you a call.”
“Oh? You know my line is always open, Garrett. I haven’t seen you at the club lately. I gathered it was probably your work schedule. I do hope that all is well with you.”
“That’s actually what I wanted to bend your ear about, James. I know that you took Brandon in after he was released from the hospital,” he began. There was a long pause before he spoke again. “One of the others that was rescued didn’t want to go home. She had some family issues which is what put her on the streets and most likely in the hands of Sebastian. Salem has been with me,” Garrett admitted.
Quickly, I recalled the other four “trinities” that were brought in that night. There had been another young man and three girls. Salem was the youngest girl. Aside from Brandon, I remember her the most because she had a purple streak in her hair, and her first name was unique.
“Ah, Salem is the young lady with the purple dye in her hair, right?” I asked, just to be certain. Garrett’s warm laughter caused me to lean back in the chair and smile.
“Yes, that’s her.” I could tell in his tone that he was most likely smiling affectionately. I knew how he felt; Brandon grabbed my heart the night in the hospital, and I didn’t want him to let go.
